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intermodal

in-ter-MOH-duhl /ˌɪntərˈmoʊdl/

adjectiveC1GREGMATCAT

technicalbusiness

Involving or suitable for two or more different modes of transportation (such as rail, road, or sea) in a seamless journey.

Used in modern logistics and urban transit planning to describe integrated systems where transfers between modes are streamlined.

The story behind the word. Coined in the 1960s with the rise of standardized shipping containers. Combining Latin inter- ('between') and modalis (from modus, 'manner/mode'), it originally described freight containers that fit standard trucks, railcars, and cargo ships alike.

Word relationships

multimodal: 'Multimodal' means multiple modes exist, while 'intermodal' highlights the seamless connection and transfer between those modes.
integrated: 'Integrated' is a general term, whereas 'intermodal' specifically addresses transit combinations.

unimodal: Relying on or involving only a single mode of transportation.

Commonly confused with

international: 'International' refers to crossing national borders; 'intermodal' refers to switching transport modes.

Collocations

intermodal hub
intermodal transport
intermodal freight
intermodal connection

Example sentences

"The new transit center functions as an intermodal hub, connecting commuter trains, city buses, and bicycle lanes." City transit integration
"Intermodal freight shipping allows cargo containers to move from ships to trains without unpacking the goods." Global shipping logistics

Memory hook

INTER (between) + MODES: Moving seamlessly between different modes of travel. Switching modes seamlessly.

When not to use

Do not use to describe a journey made entirely on a single vehicle or mode of transport.

Fun facts

The modern intermodal shipping container, standardized in 1956 by Malcom McLean, reduced cargo loading costs by over 90% and made globalized trade possible.